The best camping in Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area, CA

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Discover the thrill of off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area

Bare All Retreat

1. Bare All Retreat

90%
(55)
19mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
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Full hookups
Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

2. Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

97%
(30)
20mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Diamond Acres is a quiet, secluded camp in the Kern River Valley just minutes from Lake Isabella, the mighty Kern River, and Southern Sierras! We offer glamping sites (tent or trailer) with hot showers and flushing toilets! Come enjoy the solitude and stars. Our camp overlooks miles of rolling hills with no houses in view! Skip the crowded campgrounds and glamp comfortably while only being 5 minutes from Lake Isabella! Take a short walk to the top of the property and enjoy some of the best sunsets you've ever seen! We are close to the Kern River, OHV trails, hot springs, hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, paragliding, and so much more!
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Double Triangle Ranch

3. Double Triangle Ranch

98%
(61)
20mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation. Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those. When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive with language studies and cultural events.
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Potable water
Happy Gray Coyote

4. Happy Gray Coyote

95%
(54)
21mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites
Property has been in my family for 60 years. Hope you enjoy the desert getaway!Learn more about this land:5 acres of open desert. Great views of surrounding mountains. Middle of nowhere, a great spot to get away from it all.. star gaze, and just chill out. Boon dock off the grid. NO Facilities but town has everything you could need and just far enough away... If you plan on having a campfire please obtain a burn permit on line. Its free and a great fire safety precaution. Obviously NO FIREWORKS.   
Water hookup
Pets
Wandering Star Ranch

5. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(48)
21mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
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Picnic table
Desert Stargazers Dream

6. Desert Stargazers Dream

91%
(16)
27mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Less them 3 hours from Los Angeles, this private property is 2 acres of the secluded desert for you to enjoy! Just outside California City, there are miles of roads for the off-road enthusiast and some of the best stargazing in California. (As the Mayor once said, you can see more stars in California City then you could in Los Angeles). There is also great rockhounding and hiking opportunities! Campers can set up camp anywhere on the property but we also have an area cleared off for tent or car camping. There is also a firepit - enjoy and have a huge bon fire! 4 wheel drive highly recommended due to sand and dirt roads Fires are allowed but must be completely put out, and campers must bring all their own supplies. All off-roading must get permit before hand - contact host for details.
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A Unique Mountain Retreat

7. A Unique Mountain Retreat

100%
(340)
28mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.
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Split Mountain Retreat

8. Split Mountain Retreat

95%
(10)
29mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Split Mountain Retreat! Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy amazing lake and mountain views from our Mountain Top Studio or our large, level RV campsite. Unobstructed 360* views, complete privacy, acres of land to roam and full RV hookups. There is a studio apartment and two RV locations, each with 50amp and 30amp; 120V outlets and septic connections. A covered area with picnic tables and a sitting area with Adirondack chairs. 28 acre property surrounded by BLM land. Hiking abounds. Multiple sitting areas for meditation or enjoying the spectacular view. No close neighbors. Complete privacy, peace and quiet. No Smoking. No Parties. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at our private mountain top retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Kernville Ranch

9. Kernville Ranch

100%
(23)
29mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 4 sites
Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,
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Antelope Canyon Ranch

10. Antelope Canyon Ranch

98%
(61)
29mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
The Ranch has many varied sites to explore from oak woodlands to pine covered woods. The ownership of the land has been held since 1883 by the Summit Lime Company and was until the 1930's the site of several lime quarries one of which was used to supply material for the Owens valley to Los Angeles aquaduct. Current utilization is for recreation, private hunting club, timber production, and cattle grazing. The campground was built in 1967 to provide a location for church, non-profit, and youth groups to enjoy a private, and safe location for outdoor recreation activities. Camping is restricted to family and group activities. The campground has 17 sites a comfort station, water hook-ups, fire ring, and 4X8 foot stone BAR-B-Que. In order to provide a private experience no two groups are scheduled at the same time. An ideal group size is 15 to 150 persons.
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Campfires
Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

11. Spirit Walk - Private Retreat

99%
(584)
30mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private ADULT ONLY camping. With a central outdoor kitchen and dining area, group fire pit, and a bathroom with a composting toilet, sink and shower. Seasonal creek. Quiet and private. Stargazer and the Boulders have their own fire pit, and there's a communal fire pit too. We have a small cabin (The Playhouse) and 9 campsites. Each campsite will accommodate a medium size tent (10’x10’ max), except for The Boulders which will accommodate more. No Pets, No Smoking ADULTS ONLY. Spirit Walk is a quiet meditative place. It is not a conducive environment for young children. Thank you for understanding. Lake Isabella, the Kern River and historic Kernville are just 5 minutes down the road. All Hipcamp proceeds go directly back into the land in the way of forest maintenance, a tree planting program and improvements to the facilities.
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Full hookups
Horse Ranch Camp Desert Paradise

12. Horse Ranch Camp Desert Paradise

100%
(15)
31mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are the largest Arabian horse rescue in the United States. We are on 100 acres, but are currently using only 10 fenced acres for our horses. We have an average of 75 horses on our property. Most live in larger areas or paddocks in group "herds". We focus on rehabilitation and training with the goal of finding permanent homes for our horses. However, we have about 30+ horses who are "sanctuary horses", either because they are older, or were traumatized, or have health issues, thus will not be rideable. They get to live their lives out with us.Learn more about this land:Come pitch your tent on our horse rescue ranch. Two spots are near our little Western Town, you can even sleep in the jail or inside the general store. Another location is near the horses or in a more secluded area. We have two spots to park RVs as well. You can visit with the horses, while enjoying some idyllic beautiful high desert vistas. At night, you can see the city lights from a distance, but it is far enough to really see the stars in the night sky (no light pollution). Please bring your own chairs. We have a serviced porta-potty with potable water access. Camp Fire: Because of fire danger, there are no campfires possible. We have a working gold mine across the street, that can be hiked up to, to a certain point. We have lots of desert trails surrounding us. Activities: Learn about horses and help at the horse rescue, feeding and watering, giving horses treats. All proceeds from your camping on our property goes to support the horses at our rescue.
Toilets
Water hookup
Potable water
Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

13. Okihi- Reimagining The Kern River

97%
(32)
43mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Okihi is a unique sanctuary where habitat restoration meets outdoor adventure. Nestled in a diverse landscape, we focus on healing the land through hands-on conservation while offering a space to connect with nature, camp, and learn. This isn’t your average campground, make sure to look over the rules, check in and locked gate times. They will be enforced. Restore and Explore We’re committed to revitalizing native habitats—our land is a living example of ecological renewal. Wander scenic trails, enjoy wildlife, and witness the power of restoration in action. Sustainable Farming and Livestock Our animals play a key role in regeneration. Horses, sheep, goats, turkeys, and chickens help manage invasive weeds and maintain healthy ecosystems. We compost all their manure, turning waste into valuable resources for soil health. Camping and Community Camp under the stars, explore nature, and join us for seasonal events and workshops focused on sustainability, conservation, and community. Whether you're here to camp, hike, or volunteer, Okihi is a place where nature and people come together for a common cause. Okihi is more than a destination—it's a living example of land restoration, sustainable living, and the power of community. Come explore, learn, and make a difference! Okihi is approximately 15 minutes east of Downtown Bakersfield. 20 minutes away from the 99 hwy or 178 hwy. Whichever way you are traveling, we are a great stopover point. Sites are spread around on the east side of the property facing the river for beautiful river views while you sip coffee from your site. There are a multitude of recreation opportunities to enjoy. On site is a work in progress and you will see project sites not fully completed. We have a hammock veranda that is fully shaded and a great place to relax along the river. Miles of biking paths run on the road right by where we are situated and there is a nearby river rafting company if you want the white water experience. Most of our campers are road tripping, getting away from LA, or are looking for a stopover on their way to/from Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, etc. We are in a desert climate – cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Portable heaters or fans with misting options are available for rent.
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Terra Vivus

14. Terra Vivus

96%
(53)
44mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Terra Vivus is Latin for "The Earth is alive." Welcome to a great balance of being away from civilization, engulfed in nature with peace and quiet yet also being 10 minutes away from the nearest market and 30 minutes away from the nearest city. Chipmunks, crows, doves, crickets, coyotes, sparrows and many other creatures call this land home. This is protected land called a Significant Ecological Area mostly because of the thousands of Joshua Trees. Send a photo/video of you sharing your water with the plants at terra.vivus.inquiries@gmail.com and receive $3 off your stay. 25% of all revenue goes to restoring, preserving and enhancing the existing ecosystem. Come experience and contribute to the preservation of this beautiful landscape. It can be windy at times, in order to mitigate this I recommend using your car(s) to block the wind. Local markets also sell neck gaiters for face protection. I also have pieces of plywood with bricks that you're welcome to move and shift to fit your needs. I am in the process of building a tree/shrub wind block. There's about .4 miles of dirt road to get to the property, there are some dips to watch out for but I come out here in a little Prius so it's manageable. Overall, there is an element of seclusion but occasionally people do drive by on the dirt road. I would rate the cell phone service a 7/10, it's pretty solid but can go out at times.
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Campfires
The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

15. The Squattage in the Sequoia National Forest!

97%
(79)
44mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
It’s a newly constructed little cottage that a Sasquatch would call home, that’s why we call it the Squattage! Our guests love the history of our Village and surrounding areas, the wildlife, serenity, and friendly folks, we hope you do too! Learn more about this land: Beautiful new A-frame, high-end fit and finish! Features include a sleeping loft! The downstairs has a daybed, a sitting area, an indoor potty, and a nice breakfast bar! It’s so relaxing, romantic, and just as fabulous as can be! The hot outdoor shower has a beautiful view of the trees and sky! The large front porch is perfect for relaxing or planning the day's adventure! Relax at the picnic table and enjoy the moment! There’s a propane fire pit to cook on or enjoy, propane is available for $40 or you can bring your own. Peaceful Village, beautiful views, park-like setting! Lots of wildlife to hear and see! Beds have high-end bedding, nicer than the hotels! Towels and washcloths are provided for the shower. We even have a few games for you to play to add to your stay at the Squattage! HEY FOLKS! The weather is beautiful, come on up! Spoil yourself and spend some time in our neck of the woods, you deserve it! BOOK NOW BEFORE SOMEONE BEATS YOU TO IT!! Hope to see you soon! PS, we now have Star Link Wi-Fi!! Come on up and be a part of our community! If you want to add to your outdoor adventure, ask about our custom handmade knives and rings. Items will be available for you to purchase after you check in👍 Hiking trails are nearby, and the Trail of 100 Giants is about a 30-minute drive! The 7 Oaks Market is a short walk away, lots of good food and conversation! The outdoor shower is seasonal, not available when the potential for a freeze exists. See ya soon!
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Campfires
Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

16. Bakersfield Farm Animals & Pond

96%
(356)
50mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
LOCATION INFO Enjoy a rustic, no-fuss stay on our 20-acre working farm just 15 miles south of Bakersfield, with easy freeway access. Campsites sit along the pond - perfect for catch-and-release fishing, paddle boarding, or kayaking. We have a small area with farm animals (goats, sheep, peacocks and chickens) for you to enjoy. Expect a desert climate: hot summers, cold winters. Each site includes a small table, potable water spigot, picnic table, and fire pit (bring your own wood). All sites are BYO tent or car-camping with the exception of our one Glamping Site which includes a queen bed. Some sites have vehicle height limits (noted in site names), and cannot accommodate pop-ups or truck campers. Amenities include one shared indoor toilet and an outdoor hot/cold shower. There are 2 kayaks and 2 paddleboards that are free to use amongst all guests. We offer self check-in and you're welcome to arrive anytime after 1PM; checkout is 11AM. Please respect quiet hours after 10PM if arriving late. CAMP RULES No Pets – Our dogs roam freely and protect the farm and see other animals as threats. You will be asked to leave with no refund if you bring a pet. Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM. If we receive complaints about noise, you’ll be asked to leave immediately. 1 Tent + 1 Car are permitted per Site, with the exception of Site 4 which allows 2 tents/2 cars. If you are a large group with multiple tents and families, you will need to book multiple sites. Each site has a maximum capacity, so if you put in 12 people, it will not show you all the sites available - put in 4 people and then you can pick which combination of sites you would like for your group. No tents or canopies on the grass/lawn area. No fireworks or open flames outside of designated fire pits. Propane burners or grills are permitted. Do not feed the farm dogs - no treats or food, ever. At checkout: dispose of trash in the dumpster by Site 5, soak any hot coals, wipe down tables, and put back the kayaks and paddleboards. Shower use: Only farm-provided shampoo and soap are allowed. Do not move firepits. Commercial use of any photography or video content captured on the farm -including for business, promotional, or influencer purposes - is strictly prohibited without prior written consent.
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Silver Spur Ranch

17. Silver Spur Ranch

100%
(7)
14mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
"Oasis" located close by to the Kern River Valley and Lake Isabella Located in a valley that meets the junction of the High Sierras and Mojave region Here at the ranch are 110 acres of open space with running creek to explore! There is a large park like lawn area by the site and plenty of shade trees ! RV sites with hookups are available at $65 nightly T Mobil cell service available at the ranch (No Att or Verizon) Wifi available "silver spur ranch" ask for passcode Sequoia Nat Forest is nearby and also a network of OHV trails close by ! Also a 2 bedroom cabin is available to rent here at the ranch ..
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Full hookups
RRR Ranch Mojave

18. RRR Ranch Mojave

100%
(2)
15mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
The RRR Ranch was formed on December 25, 2005, by Brian and Rick with a vision of a place where artists and filmmakers can create and relax. 15 acres of remote desert in the Fremont Valley the ranch sits on the slopes of the hills over looking Kohen Dry Lake. We have hosted numerous events and film shoots. Explore the ranch and the surrounding areas, We have stages, fire pits, diy bars, 20 foot tall steel pyramid with observation deck and performance stage. 16 foot dome filled with tech stuff. Vintage bath tub. And 250 gallon tub, burned out car. Mini geodesic kids dome, stargazing, sand dunes and 3000 gallon water tank.
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PLANTS Foundation

19. PLANTS Foundation

19mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
A vacant land surrounded by desert landscape 🏜️ Hot days and star filled cold nights 🌌 Area is known to have high breezes! 🍃 Reptiles & Birds have been spotted in the area 🦅 This desert is also know for precious metals & crystals such as gold & silver , tourmaline 🔮 **This is a non-profit.
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Hatch Ranch Loft

20. Hatch Ranch Loft

100%
(1)
20mi from Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area · 1 site
Escape to this creative loft nestled in the High Sierras, where luxury meets art. Be inspired by Mid-Century Modern decor, a dedicated art desk, and a spacious open-concept layout. Unwind in a serene, private setting with mountain views, perfect for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the balcony making homemade pizza to exploring nearby trails or cozying up by the fireplace, this loft offers a seamless blend of comfort, creativity, and tranquility. Enjoy the best of all worlds—remote yet accessible, rugged yet refined. Your perfect retreat awaits!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

Embark on an off-road adventure at Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area. With over 26,000 acres of rugged Mojave Desert terrain, this park invites ATV, motorcycle, ROV, and 4x4 enthusiasts to explore its vast landscapes. Venture across a checkerboard of trails, where the thrill of the ride is matched only by the scenic vistas. Prepare for a self-contained experience, as the park offers pit toilets but no water or hook-ups for camping.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA is from October to April, when cooler temperatures and occasional rains create perfect conditions for off-highway vehicle recreation. Summer brings intense heat, making it less favorable for visitors. Winter months may see snowfall, adding a unique challenge to the terrain.

Know before you go

  • Prepare for self-sufficient camping; no water or hook-ups are available on-site.
  • Check for fire closure orders before planning your visit to ensure access to all areas.
  • OHV recreation is best enjoyed from October to April for optimal weather conditions.
  • Remember, the park is open 24/7, but always call ahead for the latest updates on conditions.
  • For emergencies, dial 911, and for park information, call (661) 248-7008.

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